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Mpox is a virus first discovered in monkeys in 1958 when a pox-like disease appeared in some monkeys kept for research.
The first human case was reported in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Since then, cases have been reported in several African countries, with the virus primarily circulating in Central Africa, notably in Cameroon, Gabon, the DRC, and the Republic of Congo.
The virus is not easily transmitted from person to person unless there is close contact.
Transmission can occur through skin-to-skin contact with an infected person, particularly through the nose, mouth, genitals, or eyes.
Person-to-person spread can happen during direct contact, such as sexual activity, kissing, cuddling, or other forms of close contact.
Additionally, coughing or sneezing by someone with Mpox near you can also lead to infection.
Sharing clothes or bedding with an infected person can increase the risk of transmission.
People with Mpox typically develop a rash that may appear on the hands, feet, chest, face, around the mouth, or near the genitals, including the penis, testicles, vagina, and anus.
The rash often resembles pimples or blisters and can be painful or itchy, usually appearing around 21 days after infection.
If you notice these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical help immediately.
Other symptoms include fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, exhaustion, muscle aches, backaches, headaches, and respiratory symptoms like coughing or a sore throat.
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is actively monitoring the Mpox outbreak in Africa and has initiated response efforts in the DRC and Burundi.
The IRC plans to expand its response to countries like Kenya and Uganda by conducting awareness-raising activities and implementing measures to prevent and control the spread of the virus.
